Best Hikes in Maui

Maui may be famous for its beaches, but if you only keep your toes in the sand during your trip to our island, you’ll be doing yourself a big disservice. That’s because we also offer some of the most spectacular hiking on the planet. Wander inland, and you’ll find paths that take you through tropical forests and sometimes end at a hidden waterfall! Our island is crisscrossed by hiking trails. Whether you just want to get a little exercise with your family or challenge yourself to a day-long sojourn, you can find the perfect trail in Maui.

Here are some of our favorite Maui hikes:

‘Iao Valley State Park, Central Maui

You don’t have to be a fitness model or personal trainer in order to enjoy Maui’s natural splendor. This trail is less than two miles long and will give you an excellent introduction to our island’s inner landscape. Check out the ‘Iao Needle, the site of a famous historical battle. It’s easy to find waterfalls in this big park so happy wandering! Consider packing a lunch. The park offers plenty of picnic areas.

Makahiku Falls, Kipahulu

If it’s “waterfall of bust” for you, then one of the most convenient ways to find one is on the Makahiku Falls trail. Just a mile into the Oheo Gulch, you’ll discover this natural treasure. Bring your swimsuit and don’t be shy about giving the water a try. Just be aware that since this is one of the more accessible and famous waterfalls in Maui it often attracts a lot of tourists who want to enjoy the water as much as you!

Polipoli Spring State Recreational Area & Forest Reserve, Kula

If you are an intermediate or advanced hiker, we invite you to Polipoli Spring State Recreational Area & Forest Reserve. There are plenty of shorter trails in the park or families and beginners, but the longest, at seven miles, is definitely worth a try. What makes Polipoli truly unique is that its high elevation gives rise to majestic Redwood trees. Wander among these gentle giants as you enjoy gorgeous views of Maui’s south shore.

Waihee Ridge Trail, Wailuku

Enthusiastic hikers are going to love the Waihee Ridge Trail, which climbs almost 1,500 feet over five miles of trail. The light at the end of the tunnel is Lanilili Peak, where intrepid adventurers can rest at the edge of a beautiful waterfall. The peak also gives hikers some of the best views of the island. The best part is that the second half of the hike is almost entirely downhill! This is a challenging hike, so bring water and make sure you are physically prepared for it!

Halemauu, Haleakala

If you are a nature lover, then you absolutely must visit Haleakala National Park during your trip to Maui. If you are also an advanced hiker looking for a “real” challenge, the Halemauu Trail will certainly test your mettle (and your quads!). This ten-mile trail starts at the top of Haleakala’s crater (Haleakala is Maui’s massive dormant volcano, FYI) and then takes you down into the crater via a series of switchbacks. You’ll get to see lots of amazing lava rock and volcanic eco-zones. The trail will then take you across the crater, all the way to Holua Cabin. If you still haven’t had enough, it’s just a mere six miles to Paliku Cabin!

Throughout this trail, you’ll get amazing views, plus – come on – where else are you going to be able to hike across a volcano!

*Note Haleaka does not require reservations for sunset but they do require reservations for sunrise.

Please visit Haleakala Sunrise Reservations